Fitzwilliam Museum Tours

The principal museum of the University of Cambridge, the Fitzwilliam Museum was founded in 1816 to house the art collection of the 7th Viscount FitzWilliam and it remains the city’s most impressive collection of art and antiquities.

More than half a millions works make up the mind-boggling permanent collection, with items dating back as early as 2500 BC and ranging from Ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman artifacts to medieval coins and Renaissance sculptures, to 21st-century art. Highlights include works by Titian, Rubens, Van Dyck, Monet, Renoir, Picasso and Cézanne; an extensive collection of Turner paintings; and a remarkable exhibition of Oriental art. Rarities include a series of printed books and illuminated manuscripts, a huge collection of Elizabethan music manuscripts and bas-reliefs excavated from ancient Persepolis.

Alongside the permanent exhibitions, the Fitzwilliam Museum hosts a number of major exhibitions, special events and workshops throughout the year, as well as an on-site café and museum shop.

Practical Info

The Fitzwilliam Museum is located on Trumpington Street in central Cambridge, close to Downing College, and is open Tues-Sat from 10am-5pm and Sun from 12-5pm. Admission is free.